1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Golf |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |